How to Fall in Love with Books in a World Obsessed with Scrolling?

From Barack Obama to Elon Musk, some of the most influential people in the world have openly expressed their love for reading. But reading is not just a tool to improve vocabulary or expand knowledge; it's also a wonderful escape from the everyday world. Much like traveling, books can transport you to different places—sometimes even to entirely different worlds. Reading also makes you wiser, helping you understand diverse perspectives and, in some ways, offering valuable insights into tackling real-life challenges. Let’s face it: spending time immersed in a book is far more enriching than endlessly scrolling through social media.

If you made reading a part of your New Year’s resolution but have struggled to stick to it, don’t worry! Here are some tips to help you cultivate a love for reading and develop a lasting habit:

1. Make a Daily Reading Schedule

Just like exercise or meal planning, reading needs to be prioritized and fit into your daily routine.

• Dedicate a set amount of time each day—whether it’s 10 minutes or an hour—to reading.
• If you have a packed schedule, try carving out just 5-10 minutes daily.
• As a beginner, starting with 10-15 minutes and marking your progress with a bookmark can make reading more manageable.
• Whether it’s during your lunch break or after dinner, find a time that works best for you to make reading a part of your daily life.

2. Carry a Book Everywhere

Take your book with you wherever you go. Whether you're on a train, waiting for an appointment, or during lunch breaks, reading can become a natural part of your day.

• If your daily commute involves a metro ride, even a short 10-minute journey is a great opportunity to read a few pages.
• Working from home? Set aside 15-30 minutes for reading during breaks to recharge your mind.
• No matter what your lifestyle is, even starting with just 15 minutes a day can help you develop a consistent reading habit over time.

3. Make a Reading List

To develop a lifelong reading habit, it’s important to read what genuinely interests you, not what’s trending. In today’s social media-driven world, it’s easy to be swayed by popular books, but lasting passion for reading comes from choosing books that speak to you.

• Ask yourself: What kind of book excites you? Don’t pick a book just because everyone else is reading it.
• If you prefer books in your native language, go for it! Don’t feel obligated to stick to English-only books. The right book for you is the one that resonates, regardless of language or genre.
• If others are reading motivational books, but your heart is drawn to fiction or mythology, follow your own interests. Read what YOU love.

4. Make Reading Pleasurable

The experience of reading should be enjoyable, so take time to create the right atmosphere.

• Pair your reading session with a hot cup of coffee or tea, and settle into a comfortable chair or cozy blanket.
• Whether you enjoy reading during sunrise, sunset, or while lounging at the beach, make sure the environment suits your preferences to enhance your experience.

5. Visit Book Fairs

Book fairs are excellent places to explore a wide range of books and discover new authors.

• Delhi, for example, hosts an international book fair every year, usually between January and February, offering a chance to dive into a world of literature.
• Attending book fairs offers you the opportunity to discover various authors who are writing within the same genres, allowing you to explore different perspectives and styles.
• ?Book fairs also provide a unique chance to interact directly with authors, as many attend these events to connect with their readers and share insights about their work.

6. Join a Community of Readers

Surrounding yourself with fellow book lovers can have a profound impact on your reading habits. They can motivate you to read more and provide recommendations that you may not have considered.

• Whether it's a formal book club or informal meetups, joining a community of readers gives you an opportunity to share thoughts, discuss books, and exchange opinions with others.
• Your social circle has a powerful influence on your habits. You are often shaped by the people you spend the most time with, so joining a reading group can keep you inspired and connected to new ideas.

7. Make a Social Commitment

Sometimes, making a commitment to others can strengthen your resolve to read more. But remember, the most important commitment is to yourself.

• Don’t pressure yourself too much; reading is for your own enjoyment and growth. You’re not reading to impress others—you’re reading to enrich your own life.

8. Try Different Mediums

In today’s digital age, technology can make reading even more accessible. If physical books don’t fit your lifestyle, there are plenty of alternatives.

• Audiobooks are an excellent way to enjoy literature on the go. Platforms like Audible make it easy to listen to books while driving, commuting, or exercising.
• Whether you’re listening during a walk or while preparing dinner, audiobooks offer a convenient way to keep reading without having to sit down with a physical book.

Incorporating reading into your daily routine may seem like a challenge at first, but with the right approach and mindset, it can quickly become a rewarding habit. So, pick up a book today and let the world of literature open up to you. Happy reading!

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